New study sheds light on how three distinct types of first impressions predict subsequent dating outcomes

A series of three speed dating studies with later follow-ups investigated whether different aspects of initial romantic impressions predicted later romantic outcomes and whether a romantic relationship would be initiated. Results showed that the desirability of the potential partner and assessment of how compatible the person is as a partner strongly predicted whether a date would result in a romantic relationship or not. The new findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. First impressions are important. They are the primary assessment we make of another pe...